Kampala. King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV of Uganda's traditional kingdom of Touro has died at the age of 34. He ascended the throne in 1995 at the age of just three years and became the youngest ruler in the world at that time. His death was announced by Touro Prime Minister Kelvin Armstrong Womire Akiki.
Giving information about Raja's demise on social media platform X late Thursday night, the Prime Minister described it as an irreparable loss. He said that Raja died at around 10 pm local time on Thursday night. However, the cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Took the throne at the age of three after father's death
Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV was crowned King of Touro on 12 September 1995. He was succeeded by his father Rukirabasaiza Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III after his death.
By becoming king at the age of just three years, his name was recorded among the youngest rulers of the world. Despite assuming the throne at such a young age, he later played an important role in the social and cultural life of Touro.
Ugandan Republic, traditional kings still exist
Uganda is a democratic country, where the President is elected and political power rests with the elected government. Despite this, many traditional monarchies still exist in the country.
These monarchies are a continuation of the traditional states that existed before the colonial period. In modern Uganda these kings have limited formal political authority, but their influence at the social and cultural levels is considered significant.
King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV was the chief of state of Touro, located in western Uganda. The Touro region is near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Treatment was going on in America
Balam Barugahara, a minister in President Yoweri Museveni's government, said shortly before the official announcement of King's death that he was undergoing treatment in the US. However, the Prime Minister did not give the reason for his death.
Prime Minister Akiki said the king was unmarried, but had left an heir. He made it clear that the continuity of the throne is assured.
Wave of mourning in Uganda
There was a wave of mourning in Uganda after the news of the death of the king came out. His demise was widely discussed from social media to national media.
Uganda's famous pop star and later politician turned opposition leader Bobi Wine also expressed his condolences on social media. He prayed for the peace of the king's soul.
Youth was told strength
On the occasion of the King's birthday in April this year, Touro's Prime Minister praised his leadership. He had said that Raja is not away from the realities of his people and is part of this generation.
The Prime Minister had described his youth as a strength rather than a weakness. According to him, King's youth brought energy, new perspectives and a new vision of the future to Touro.
Following the demise of King Oyo, the succession process will now proceed in the traditional monarchy of Touro. Although his political role remained symbolic, his place in the social and cultural life of Touro was important.